Venture deep into the jungles of Ranthambore where tigers roam among 13th-century temple ruins, and feel your adrenaline peak as your experienced private guide leads you into the wild heart of India.

Here, at Project Tiger Reserve in Rathambore, safari-style game viewing tours will bring you up close to the park’s wild tiger popular, along with its other elusive residents including sambhar, cheetah, leopard, sloth, jackal and hyena. You’ll also take in the best of India’s man-made creations on a private tour of Delhi that showcases its British colonial history alongside the ancient Hindu traditions of the World Heritage-listed Red Fort. A short distance outside of Varanasi, you’ll encounter the more than 2000-year-old Dharmekh Stupa where Buddha is said to have first preached his sermon, and cruise the holy Ganges as enthusiastic locals – and some brave tourists – absolve their sins in her mystical waters. Other highlights include a visit to the City Palace of Jaipur and a private guided tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra.

From spotting wild tigers in deep jungle to witnessing a Hindu Aarti Ceremony on the banks of the Ganges and roaming among the artisan workshops of the Amber Fort, a team of private guides and drivers will help you attain an authentic Indian experience. A carefully-selected collection of premium hotels that feature heritage-listed colonial properties, rustic game lodges and picturesque lakeside retreats add to this rich experience. ... Show More »

Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.

PLEASE NOTE: Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is closed from July 1 - September 30 due to the monsoon season.
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Day 1:Delhi

For your added comfort, your English-speaking representative will be waiting for you outside the customs area with a sign with your name on it. Your representative will assist you to co-ordinate meeting up with your private driver and accompany you to your accommodation.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Accommodation: Le Meridien (City Center) (5*)

Through the lenses of art, design, fashion, and cuisine, Le Méridien New Delhi creates an ambience that encourages guests to embark on journeys of discovery. The hotel is situated two kilometers from Rashtrapati Bhawan, the home of the President of India; the Presidential Palace; Parliament House; and the commercial hub of Connaught Place. A great location, set amidst the most alluring shopping and entertainment districts in New Delhi. approximately 30 minutes away from the Indira Gandhi International Airport and five minutes from the New Delhi railway station.

Qutab Minar, Delhi

Le Meridien

Day 2:Delhi

Spend the day on a privately guided full day tour of Old and New Delhi which boasts spectacular monuments and holy sites. The city of New Delhi was designed in the typically British colonial style, with tree-lined avenues and colonial bungalows. This tour takes you to the Laxminarayan Temple, a modern Hindu temple, and the famous Gate of India, which is a 42-meter high War Memorial Arch. Visit the Red Fort which was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60 to 110 feet. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Afterwards view the Humayun's tomb, which is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Accommodation: Le Meridien (City Center) (5*)

Gate of India

Day 3:Delhi - Varanasi

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes.

Meet your transfer with your private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide, between the airport and Varanasi Hotel

Take a private guided tour of Sarnath. Located 5 miles from Varanasi, the site is the deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is the Dharmekh Stupa, an impressive 128-foot high, and 93-diameter large structure. It was constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE. There are also several other Buddhist erections that were added between the 3rd and the 11th century BC. Take a walk around the grounds and also take time to enjoy the museum.

The Aarti Ceremony is a Hindu ritual where light or fire is offered to the deities. Each Lamp wick is soaked in ghee or purified butter and lit, whilst songs of praise are sung in front of the deities. "Aa", means "towards", and "Rati" can be translated to "the highest love for God" in Sanskrit. Almost all the Hindu worship rituals involve the ceremony of Aarti. Perhaps the first mentioning of the Ceremony of Aarti in India can be found in the Rig Veda, which is considered to be the earliest scripture of Hinduism. This evening Aarti Ceremony is an absolutely wonderful sight from the Ganges River. This tour includes a boat ride to experience the magical ceremony from the water.

Accommodation: Radisson (4*)

The Radisson Hotel Varanasi is a five star hotel conveniently located in the heart of the main business district. With its modern architecture, warm hospitality and topnotch services, the hotel is sure to please business and leisure travelers alike.

Varanasi

Radisson Varanasi

Day 4:Varanasi

Glide along the famous and holy Ganges waterway in a private boat accompanied by an expert guide. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi attract tourists and pilgrims of all ages for the opportunity to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one's sins. Pilgrims and tourists alike can be seen swimming and bathing immediately next to the funeral pyres of the riverside temples. This is a somewhat surreal experience and only for those with a strong constitution.

"One can survive everything nowadays, except death." In India dying is accepted as a part of life, and when one dies, there are a multitude of rituals and ceremonies that need to be performed. This experience takes you to the Manikarnika Ghat to take a look at the various death rituals passage that the Hindus perform. Hindus, who carry out a myriad of rituals in their lifetime, believe that humans are reborn according to their karma and hence, perform many death rituals to ensure that the soul rests in peace. You may wonder why Hindus burn or cremate the body instead of burying it. The answer lies in the belief. Here, your tour guide will introduce you to the history and mythology associated with this Ghat. You will get to understand the rites and see the inner workings of this unique place. This experience is expected to last approximately 4 hours including travel time.

Winding through the streets and popping out onto the riverside will give you an insider’s look at the symbiotic life of the riverside people of Varanasi. Eventually, as you tour through the city you will end up on Bengali Tola, the street of the Bengalis, where you will be visiting the hidden Mother Goddess Kali shrines, and the vistas of life along the riverside. The tour continues to the historic ritual bathing site called Dashaswamedh, or the ten-horse sacrifice Ghat, the perfect way to conclude this walking city tour.

Accommodation: Radisson (4*)

Mystic Rowing Boat on the Holy Ganges River

Puja Offering

Day 5:Varanasi - Delhi - Jaipur

Meet your transfer with your private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide, between the airport and Varanasi Hotel

Enjoy your flight from Varanasi to Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes.

Enjoy your flight from Delhi to Jaipur. The flight duration is approximately one hour.

An airport transfer with private vehicle, driver and English-speaking representative is provided.

Accommodation: Jai Mahal Palace (5*)

The Jai Mahal Palace is set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, and dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight-grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthan magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping center and historical monuments.

Jantar Mantar

Jai Mahal Palace

Day 6:Jaipur

Spend the day today in the company of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide as you tour the Amber Fort and City Palace of Jaipur, the iconic Observatory and the Hawa Mahal. The magnificent Amber Fort was established in 1592, and remained the citadel of the Kachhawaha rulers right until they moved their capital to Jaipur in 1727. Maharaja Man Singh I created this imposing monument on the remains of an ancient 11th century fort. Since the first half of the 18th century, the City Palace has been the abode to the rulers of Jaipur. The sprawling expanse of the breathtaking palace is a superb harmony of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Part of the palace has been converted into a museum, open to the public, while a section - Chandra Mahal - still remains the home of today’s maharaja. The Observatory of Jaipur is inscribed on the World Heritage List as "an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period". Within it, the Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Built in 1799, the whimsical Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds - which adjoins the Palace has become quite the city icon, with its ornate façade in pale pink, tiered baroque like build, projecting ‘jharokha’ windows and balconies with perforated screens. These were designed so that the mysterious veiled ladies of the harem could look down upon the colourful and bustling bazaars below, remaining hidden themselves. Overlooking busy streets, it offers great views of the city.

From its creation in the year 1727, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur patronized the craftsmen and artisans of the city. These traditions continue to this day and as a result modern day Jaipur is considered by many as the craft capital of India. Traditional methods are still used to produce many valuable and highly prized items. Using skills passed down through generations, artisans and master craftsmen can be seen in the areas of Ghat Darwaza and Vishveshwar ji. On this fascinating evening walk mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the region's culinary delights; try pakoras, aloo tiki, samosa and ladoo from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops; jewelers and silversmiths, gold painters and tie dying experts. The iconic Hawa Mahal also called the Palace of the Winds is the meeting point at which this two and a half hour walk begins.

Accommodation: Jai Mahal Palace (5*)

Hawa Mahal

Colorful Bangles at the Local Market

Day 7:Jaipur - Ranthambore

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Ranthambore. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.

Join a Tiger Tracking Safari to Rajasthan's first Project Tiger reserve, spread over 392 square kilometers. The park is named after the 1,000 year old fort which stands within the reserve. Game viewing for tigers is often successful. The park is also home to sambhars, cheetahs, wild boars, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas among others.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*)

Located amidst 12 acres of lush gardens, Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge, a 70-year-old hunting lodge exudes a rustic, earthy charm and an air of history. The lodge is a 20-minute drive from the Ranthambore National Park, which is famous for its tiger population. All guestrooms and suites embody rustic style and comfort. From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Take part in the resort's various recreational activities for fun, adventure, knowledge and relaxation.

Ranthambore

Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Day 8:Ranthambore

Join a Tiger Tracking Safari to Rajasthan's first Project Tiger reserve, spread over 392 square kilometers. The park is named after the 1,000 year old fort which stands within the reserve. Game viewing for tigers is often successful. The park is also home to sambhars, cheetahs, wild boars, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas among others.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*)

Bengal Tiger

Day 9:Ranthambore - Agra

Join a Tiger Tracking Safari to Rajasthan's first Project Tiger reserve, spread over 392 square kilometers. The park is named after the 1,000 year old fort which stands within the reserve. Game viewing for tigers is often successful. The park is also home to sambhars, cheetahs, wild boars, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas among others.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Agra. The drive takes approximately 6 hours.

Accommodation: ITC Mughal (5*)

Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture, the property boasts the 'Khwab Mahal' wing - Palace of Dreams. The opulent rooms and suites that resemble Miniature Palaces recreate a paradise for the contemporary Mogul - full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Taj Mahal

ITC Mughal

Day 10:Agra

Today your guide will pick you up from your hotel for a private tour of the Taj Mahal, the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal. You should also visit Agra Fort, which is built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, two kilometers northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571.

Accommodation: ITC Mughal (5*)

Agra Fort

Day 11:Agra - Delhi

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Delhi. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Accommodation: JW Marriott Hotel Aerocity (5*)

The unmatched JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity offers world class guestrooms and 5 star amenities. Each space in the hotel accommodation features an aesthetically pleasing design, high-speed Internet access, 40-inch flat-screen TVs and exclusive concessions for a relaxing escape. Indulge the senses at Quan Spa, embodying a true oasis with intriguing décor and a tranquil atmosphere. Maintain health goals at the hotel in New Delhi, India, with access to the heated outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. Indulge in the restaurant with a delicious dish prepared by the chefs. The JW Marriott Hotel Aerocity will truly make guests stay pleasant and memorable.

JW Marriott Hotel Aerocity

Day 12:Delhi

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard)

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

We can customize this private tour just for you. Any element can be tailored – activities, length, hotels and destinations. Call us at 1 888 903-2001 or request a quote.

Trip Terms & Conditions

Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.

Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary

Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.

Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.

Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions

Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

Le Meridien (City Center) (5*): Delhi

Through the lenses of art, design, fashion, and cuisine, Le Méridien New Delhi creates an ambience that encourages guests to embark on journeys of discovery. The hotel is situated two kilometers from Rashtrapati Bhawan, the home of the President of India; the Presidential Palace; Parliament House; and the commercial hub of Connaught Place. A great location, set amidst the most alluring shopping and entertainment districts in New Delhi. approximately 30 minutes away from the Indira Gandhi International Airport and five minutes from the New Delhi railway station.

Le Meridien

Radisson (4*): Varanasi

The Radisson Hotel Varanasi is a five star hotel conveniently located in the heart of the main business district. With its modern architecture, warm hospitality and topnotch services, the hotel is sure to please business and leisure travelers alike.

Radisson Varanasi

Jai Mahal Palace (5*): Jaipur

The Jai Mahal Palace is set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, and dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight-grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthan magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping center and historical monuments.

Jai Mahal Palace

Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*): Ranthambore

Located amidst 12 acres of lush gardens, Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge, a 70-year-old hunting lodge exudes a rustic, earthy charm and an air of history. The lodge is a 20-minute drive from the Ranthambore National Park, which is famous for its tiger population. All guestrooms and suites embody rustic style and comfort. From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Take part in the resort's various recreational activities for fun, adventure, knowledge and relaxation.

Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge

ITC Mughal (5*): Agra

Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture, the property boasts the 'Khwab Mahal' wing - Palace of Dreams. The opulent rooms and suites that resemble Miniature Palaces recreate a paradise for the contemporary Mogul - full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

ITC Mughal

JW Marriott Hotel Aerocity (5*): Delhi

The unmatched JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity offers world class guestrooms and 5 star amenities. Each space in the hotel accommodation features an aesthetically pleasing design, high-speed Internet access, 40-inch flat-screen TVs and exclusive concessions for a relaxing escape. Indulge the senses at Quan Spa, embodying a true oasis with intriguing décor and a tranquil atmosphere. Maintain health goals at the hotel in New Delhi, India, with access to the heated outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. Indulge in the restaurant with a delicious dish prepared by the chefs. The JW Marriott Hotel Aerocity will truly make guests stay pleasant and memorable.

The trip was FABULOUS! We are now loyal Kensington converts - you took care of everything, and each day unfolded with new surprises and adventures! They were made aware (by Kensington??) that it was our shared birthday trip (my 60th!) and so each Oberoi really outdid themselves in doing special birthday celebrations! Wow, amazing! Just overwhelming!

Pamela L — August 22, 2017 — India & Area

Everything was great, when we wanted to change something they were very good at doing so. I was more than satisfied. Thanks for a wonderful trip.

Bruce Rubin — August 14, 2017 — India & Area

I loved working with Kenny and all the people at Kensington Tours. I loved how easily everything flowed during our journey. Your people were mostly wonderful with a few who simply showed up. We had a few hotel rooms that were less than perfect but in the case of Varanasi I mentioned my displeasure and the room was immediately changed. Many of the hotels were as luxurious as promised and the service was impeccable. We truly loved our trip and would happily use your services again and recommend them to our friends.

Renee Martin — August 14, 2017 — India & Area

Really great experience! The quality and the individuality of how our tour was designed was perfect! Would definitely like to do another tour with Kensington!

Richard B. — July 15, 2016 — India & Area

Guides and especially drivers were very good, indeed.

Alicia H. — June 30, 2016 — India & Area

Each of my guides was absolutely wonderful, making a whirlwind tour feel well-paced and meaningful as well as providing interesting historical/cultural insights and offering excellent shopping and restaurant recommendations. In particular, Sanjil made sure I got all of the best photo angles of the Taj Mahal. Vivek was an amazing story-teller who went above and beyond to make Udaipur come alive, and Indrajeet was an excellent teacher of India's many religions and cultural traditions. The Oberoi hotels were unbelievable; I have never stayed in more luxurious accommodations or experienced more attentive service! This tour was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

William C. — May 19, 2016 — India & Area

Mahipal, our driver for 10 days, was absolutely excellent. My wife has had 3 previous neck surgeries, and cannot ride in a bumpy vehicle. Mahipal was careful to make our travel as smooth as humanly possible. Thank you! Sunita Singh was excellent in arranging everything we needed, as well as our driver.

Sherri W. — May 18, 2016 — India & Area

The choice of hotels and the guides selected for each city were very knowledgeable. We especially liked Rotan in Jodhpur, Gowinda in Jaipur, Iqbal in Agra and Mr Satya Gupta in Deli. They were all very patient, humorous, and happened to be willing photographers. They even made restaurant suggestions for local places outside the hotel. Great versatility. Our driver, Mr. Ronnert Singh, navigated those tough Indian roads safely and flawlessly. We've taken a few tours but quite frankly Kensington was one of the best.

James H. — May 18, 2016 — India & Area

The pacing was well thought out. It's about as easy as you will ever do, i think, touring for a month in India. The Oberoi Hotels were uniformly excellent.

Diana D. — May 12, 2016 — India & Area

Just arrived back from a spectacular 13-day visit to Rajasthan, Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. Sunita Singh of Kensington put together a perfect itinerary to give us a taste of Indian sights, sounds, people and culture and the hotel bookings exceeded our expectations. Everywhere we went we were met by the local Kensington representatives, who more than handled any request we came up with. We felt well cared for throughout the trip. The local guides selected by the local Kensington representatives were knowledgeable about their home city and they were very flexible and accommodating in seeking to make the trip special. Since we were driven in a private van from Udaipur to Jodhpur to Jaipur to Agra and back to Delhi, we could not have been in better hands. Our driver was spectacular. The trip was a success and we could not be happier. Thank you Kensington for a very special trip.

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“I have to admit, this was the BEST vacation I ever had. The tour was nothing less than Fantastic! Thanks again, and unto the next vacation (although I don't know how we would top this one!!)”– Olive R.